Peonies grow bigger and brighter blooms if gardeners do one task now

If you’re looking forward to seeing your fabulous bloom in summer, then take note. An expert has warned that they won’t grow properly unless you fertilise them at a specific time in spring.

Peonies are widely regarded as one of the most beautiful species. With their blush-pink petals and delicate yellow faces, they make for a romantic addition to any . Unsurprisingly, the flower has traditionally been associated with decadence and luxury. In fact, the Royal Horticultural Society has even described them as “aristocratic”.

They typically bloom between late spring and early summer; instantly beckoning warmer weather and brighter skies. However, it is important that they’re given a little TLC to reach their full potential.

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Peonies need a lot of food as their extensive root systems dig deep into the soil. Deep underground, it can be difficult for them to source nutrients, particularly after a long cold snap.

One of the best ways to give peonies a boost is by using a fertiliser. Fertiliser is a compound that is added to soil in order to provide plants with the nutrients they need to grow.

They can either be bought in your local homeware store or made at home. Generally speaking, they are made from ingredients like animal manure, compost or other plant residues.

Often, they contain necessary minerals like calcium, phosphorus and potassium, which each support plant growth and help strengthen a flower’s cell walls. They also help better protect plants against diseases?

So, when should you fertilise your peonies? Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, told Ideal Homes: “When it comes to feeding peonies, we recommend feeding/fertilising them twice a year.”

He continued: “They should be fed in early spring as new shoots emerge from the ground, but before flower buds start to show. This supports the current year's growth, enhances hardiness, and promotes root development.”

Feeding them just as the shoots begin to emerge from the soil allows the plant to absorb as many nutrients as possible before it goes into full bloom. In turn, this makes for prettier, more durable petals.

If you don’t want to go out and buy fertiliser, don’t worry. It can be quite easily made at home using common household ingredients and food scraps. For example, things like lemon peel, egg shells and tea leaves have been known to improve plant health.

You don’t have to use food waste either – other natural products can also boost your peonies. For example, fallen leaves can make a great organic fertiliser.